The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has been conducting security screenings of luggage since November 26. With Thanksgiving approaching, many travelers are expected to take flights during these days, with an estimated 18 million passengers to be screened through December 2. Therefore, it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared to avoid delays by following the Administration’s guidelines. A significant number of TSA agents will be on duty throughout the Thanksgiving holiday period, as this is expected to be one of the busiest travel times of the year. To avoid having items confiscated or wasting more time than necessary, the TSA advises travelers not to pack certain items in their luggage during this already chaotic season.
Thanksgiving travel anticipates millions of passengers flying over several days amid airport crowds
It is estimated that between November 26 and December 2, U.S. airports will experience the highest passenger traffic of the season. While efforts will be made to minimize delays, wait times at security checkpoints are generally expected to range from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on passenger registration status.
For instance, travelers enrolled in the TSA PreCheck Trusted Traveler program can expect wait times of about 10 minutes. These passengers are not required to remove shoes, belts, jackets, or compliant liquids, gels, and food items during security screenings. Standard screening lanes typically take less than 30 minutes. To avoid stress, delays, and wasted time, proper travel planning is essential, starting with organizing your luggage.
TSA travel tips for flying during Thanksgiving
To ensure smooth travel, avoid delays, and prevent prohibited items from being confiscated at airport checkpoints, the TSA offers the following advice:
- Start by Emptying Your Luggage: Empty all contents from your bag before packing. This ensures that no prohibited items are accidentally included, saving you from unnecessary trouble during security checks.
- Check Before You Travel: If you’re unsure where to pack a particular item, consult TSA guidelines via their website at www.tsa.gov, the free MyTSA app, or social media through X (formerly Twitter) or Facebook Messenger at @AskTSA.
- Comply With the 3.4-Ounce Liquid Rule: Liquids in carry-on luggage cannot exceed 3.4 ounces and must be packed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag.
- Check Larger Liquid Items: Products exceeding 3.4 ounces, such as cranberry sauce, wine, jams, and preserves, must be checked as they are considered liquids.
- Solid Foods Are Allowed: Items like cakes and baked goods are permissible in carry-on luggage.
- Arrive Early at the Airport: Allow plenty of time to get through security without rushing.
Thanksgiving is a special day for food enthusiasts, and many will be traveling with their favorite dishes. It’s crucial to know how to pack them correctly. While most foods are permitted through security checkpoints, certain items must be packed in checked luggage.
Foods you can carry through TSA checkpoints and those that must be checked
Are You Bringing Food for Thanksgiving? To help you better understand which food items you can carry through the security checkpoint and which need to be checked at airports, we’ve provided a table to clarify the details for you.
| Foods Allowed Through TSA checkpoints | Foods to pack carefully with checked luggage |
|---|---|
| Baked goods: Pies, cakes, cookies, brownies, and other homemade or store-bought treats | Cranberry sauce: Homemade or canned |
| Meats: Turkey, chicken, ham, steaks (frozen, cooked, or raw) | Gravy: Homemade or jarred/canned |
| Stuffing: Cooked, raw, boxed, or bagged | Wine, champagne, sparkling apple cider |
| Casseroles: Green bean casserole or other exotic variations | Canned fruits or vegetables (due to liquid content) |
| Mac and cheese: Cooked or ingredients to prepare at your destination | Preserves, jams, and jellies (spreadable) |
| Fresh vegetables/fruits: Potatoes, yams, broccoli, apples, pears, pineapple, etc. Sweets and spices. | Maple syrup |
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